Olympic Runner Rebecca Cheptegei Dies After Being Set on Fire by Ex-Boyfriend
Ugandan Olympic marathon runner Rebecca Cheptegei has tragically passed away after being set on fire by her ex-boyfriend.
The 33-year-old athlete, who competed in the 2024 Paris Olympics, died from severe burn injuries she sustained during a violent attack outside their home in Kenya.
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Rebecca Cheptegei Death Confirmed
The head of Uganda’s Olympic committee confirmed Cheptegei’s death on Thursday, 5 September. The Uganda Athletics Federation also issued a statement:
“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our athlete, Rebecca Cheptegei, early this morning, who tragically fell victim to domestic violence,” reads the statement.
The federation further expressed its outrage, calling for justice:
“As a federation, we condemn such acts and call for justice. May her soul rest in peace.”
Attack Details and Investigation
According to the Independent, on Sunday, 1 September, Rebecca Cheptegei was attacked by her ex-boyfriend partner, who doused her in petrol and set her ablaze following a disagreement.
The incident occurred outside her residence in Trans Nzoia County, Kenya. According to the Trans Nzoia County Police Commander, Jeremiah ole Kosiom, the ex-boyfriend purchased a jerry can of petrol before carrying out the brutal assault. Cheptegei was rushed to the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret with burns covering 75% of her body.
The ex-boyfriend also sustained minor burn injuries during the attack and is receiving treatment at the same hospital. Police have launched an investigation into the incident, with domestic violence being a central focus.
Land Dispute at the Heart of Conflict Between Cheptegei and Ex-Boyfriend
Rebecca Cheptegei’s parents revealed that their daughter had purchased land in Trans Nzoia to be near the county’s renowned athletic training centres.
They described the conflict between Cheptegei and her ex-boyfriend as stemming from disputes over the land where their house was built. Authorities have corroborated this in their preliminary report, noting that the two had been arguing over property ownership before the tragic event.
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Tragic Death of Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei Triggers Concerns Over Domestic Abuse
Cheptegei, who finished 44th in the marathon at the Paris Olympics, trained in Kenya, which is home to many top athletes in the sport. Her tragic death has sent shockwaves through the sports community, with many calling for greater protection of female athletes.